British Christmas traditions

Christmas DayDuring the Victorian period Christmas became a time for gift giving.

The Queens messageThe tradition began in 1932 when King George V read a special speech written by Rudyard Kipling.Queen Elizabeth the II continues the tradition to this day.

The 12 Days of Christmas The song about this time of the year was written to help young Catholics learn the tenets of their faith in a time when Catholicism was prohibited in England.

Christmas DinnerIn Victorian times the traditional Christmas feast was roasted goose or roasted turkey

Christmas PuddingIt became specifically associated with Christmas when it was introduced to the Royal Christmas dinner table by Prince Albert.

Christmas CakeIt should be made about 6 weeks before Christmas.It is usually decorated with ribbons and images of Santa Claus.

Mince piesThey were banned by Oliver Cromwell but came back into existence after the Restoration.

Images of ChristmasYule logsChristmas cardsThe Christmas gooseMistletoeHollyCarol Singing

Christmas CarolsChristmas carols have their roots in medieval England when minstrels travelled from castle to castle

Mistletoe

The HollyIn old England unmarried women were supposed to tie a spring of holly to their beds to guard them against ghosts and devils.

The IvyDue to its association with pagan festivals Ivy was banned for a long time from inside Christian homes and unsed only to decorate the outside.

Christmas is a necessity. There has to be at least one day of the year to remind us that we're here for something else besides ourselves (Eric Sevareid)Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.(Author unknown, attributed to a 7-year-old)Why is Christmas just like a day at the office? You do all the work and the fat guy with the suit gets all the credit. (Anonymus)

Merry Christmas!Zamfir AlinaTrambitas MariaMihalcea Aura